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The March Update 2005
Preparation for the Gathering, at the end of February, saw two of the artists visit us at West Kilbride for a rehearsal with Norma.
The Peter Pan of Gaelic singers, Iain Carmichael.
And the Princess from Kintraw, Iseabail MacTaggart.
The March Committee Meeting saw a lot of dotting of i’s and crossing t’s to make the final preparation for the big night.
The 143rd Gathering of The Glasgow Islay Association, 4th March 2005, in the Henry Wood Halls.
It was pleasing on entering the Hall, to find such a good turnout of members and friends that included an exodus from Islay of Choir supporters.
There was a feeling that everyone was out to enjoy themselves, which made my introductory remarks so much easier.
Our Chairman, Alistair Carmichael MP made an impressive start, and quickly had the audience’s ear.
The Glasgow Islay Pipers, led by Pipe Major Andrew McCowan, ably supported by Piper Duncan Heads plus two young Islay debutants, Piper Lynsey MacArthur, and Piper Sandy McLellan got the concert going with a foot tapping start.
The presentations to Alistair and his wife Kate were delightfully made by Charis Smith, who will remember these moments for the rest of her life.
Iain Carmichael started and finished the singing, with such favourites as, Fuirich a Ribhin, Gruagach Og an Fhuilt Bhain, and a tribute to his wife with Bonnie Mary of Argyll.
Fiona Hunter sang Scots songs with clarity and feeling. Songs such as The Berry Fields of Blair, McCrimmond’s Lament, and Yellow on the Broom, endeared herself to the audience. I am certain it will not be long before she makes a return to sing at our Gathering. She is already recognised in the music world as lead singer with the Malinky group.
Iseabail MacTaggart, last year’s popular Gold Medallist, delighted us with An t-Iarla Diurach, Birlinn Cholla Chiotaich and Peurt a bheil. Again another first time performer, who will make frequent returns.
The proud parents, Joyce and Alastair Hunter, Margaret and Hamish MacTaggart must have appreciated the reception their offspring got from a knowledgeable audience.
The Port Ellen Gaelic Choir, making its swan song. They travelled from Islay, other parts of Scotland and Paris, to make their appearance something memorable. Among the songs they sang were, Moladh na Lanndaidh, Caol Muile, Peurt, and Tuireadh nan Treun, arranged by the present Eoin Millar. For Jean Campbell it was her last appearance as conductor, as she hangs up her baton. The Choir become the Islay Choir and a new era begins.
Our Chairman also becomes part of their history. One of his first acts on arriving at the Hall was to go up to their rehearsal room to meet some of his former chorister friends. Alastair kept the concert going with witty remarks, mention of known individuals, and songs, and an obvious love for the Islay scene. He will be a hard act to follow, and we thank him for making it a night to remember.
Before the interval, of an Islay 15 minutes as Alastair said, engraved President’s badges were presented to Gordon Caskie, Milda Martin, Peggy Smith, Roy Cameron, Hugh Smith, Robert Mackenzie, and Dugie Gillespie. Dugie also accepted a gift from the GIA as immediate past President, for the great effort he had made for the GIA.
We must also thank Norma for her work at the piano; she gives great confidence and support to the artists.
Hugh Smith gave a detailed vote of thanks, which was roundly applauded.
We must remind you that in June, Hugh gives up the City lights and retires to Islay. The Highland Associations will sadly miss his support and publicity. It is to be hoped that he has time to train a successor.
The Concert ended with the Choir and artists singing Soraidh Leibh.
A rush job than started to get the Hall emptied and ready for the Dance.
Again, many thanks to the committee and friends for the work behind the scenes, and a superb show.
Halftime
Earlier during the interval, a refreshment was enjoyed, and a brief chance to speak to friends.
I must apologise for not being able to talk to the many friends that I knew to be present.
The President enjoying a blether
His proud parents, Alistair and Mina Carmichael
The dance seemed to go well, and the feedback by letter, email and phone is that the 143rd GIA Gathering was an outstanding success.
Next Event –
Our Closing Concert – Friday 8th April 2005, St Columba Hall at 7.30pm.
Chairman John McNeill, singers include Dugie Gillespie, duettists Rona Ferguson and Angus MacTaggart with Norma McDougall at the piano. Come and support us.
The Trades House Musical Association
An evening of Scottish Music
Henry Wood Hall, Saturday 19th March 2005 at 7.30pm
Featuring The Glasgow Islay Junior Gaelic Choir, and the Glasgow schools Pipe Band, Stuart Cassells, Traditional Scottish Musician of the year 2005, Fiona Hunter of Malinky, a piper and entertainer.
One of the aims of this concert is to raise funds for the Islay Junior GC’s proposed trip to Nova Scotia.
Tickets at £10/£7 include a free drink and a programme.
If you can, this seems a worthwhile cause to support. 200 Club, we need a few more entries to get the draw started, please return completed forms to me.
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